Prep Cook Salary in Pueblo, CO
Prep Cooks in Pueblo, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $18.65 per hour, which translates to about $746.00 per week, $3,232.67 per month, and $38,792.00 per year.
The demand for Prep Cooks in Pueblo is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing job opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Prep Cook Make in Pueblo, CO?
The salary of a Prep Cook in Pueblo can vary depending on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.17 | $606.80 | $2,629.87 | $31,538.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.65 | $746.00 | $3,232.67 | $38,792.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.94 | $917.60 | $3,945.07 | $47,683.20 |
Do Prep Cooks in Pueblo Earn Tips?
Prep Cooks generally do not earn tips as their work focuses on food preparation behind the scenes rather than direct customer interaction. Their earnings typically come from hourly wages alone.
Prep Cook Salary in Pueblo vs. National Average
Nationally, Prep Cooks earn an average of around $18.65 per hour, translating to approximately $38,792.00 per year.
In Pueblo, Prep Cooks earn about the same as the national average, with an hourly wage and yearly salary aligning closely to these figures.
This reflects Pueblo’s competitive food industry market and consistent pay scale for culinary roles.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pueblo for Prep Cooks
Nearby areas to Pueblo also offer competitive salaries for Prep Cooks:
- Downtown: $20.71 per hour
- North Pueblo: $20.77 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods may give Prep Cooks a slight increase in hourly pay compared to other parts of Pueblo.
What Influences a Prep Cook’s Salary in Pueblo?
Several factors influence the salary of a Prep Cook in Pueblo:
- Experience: More experienced Prep Cooks tend to earn higher wages as they develop speed, accuracy, and food safety knowledge.
- Skills and Certifications: Specialized skills like knife techniques and certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification can lead to better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels often pays more than fast food or casual dining.
- Shift Hours: Evening or weekend shifts may offer differential pay boosting total earnings.
How To Become a Prep Cook in Pueblo
Becoming a Prep Cook in Pueblo involves a combination of training and practical experience.
One can start by enrolling in culinary education programs like the Pikes Peak State College Culinary Arts Program which offers degrees and certificates focusing on knife skills, cooking techniques, and food safety.
Obtaining a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is also highly recommended, as it is widely required by employers to ensure competence in food safety practices.
Gaining hands-on experience in kitchens, even through entry-level food service roles, will help build the necessary skills and open pathways to employment.
Top Employers Hiring Prep Cooks in Pueblo
Some of the leading organizations hiring Prep Cooks in Pueblo include:
- Colorado Department of Human Services
- State of Colorado
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Prep Cooks in Pueblo Work At
Prep Cooks in Pueblo typically find employment in various food service settings such as:
- Casual dining restaurants: Offering steady employment with moderate wages.
- Fast casual spots: Often have high-volume kitchens with fast-paced work but slightly lower pay.
- Hotels and resorts: Provide opportunities for higher salaries and benefits due to upscale service demands.
- Catering companies: Work may vary seasonally but can offer diverse experience and pay scales.
The type of establishment impacts salary as those with higher culinary demands and clientele typically compensate Prep Cooks better.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pueblo for Prep Cooks
If you're exploring related roles in the hospitality industry, consider these similar careers:
These include Line Cook, Pastry Cook, and Dishwasher positions, which share similar environments and skill sets with Prep Cooks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Prep Cooks in Pueblo
Prep Cooks should stay informed about the labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment.
- The official Colorado government website provides comprehensive information on state labor laws regarding wage regulations, overtime, and employment rights.
- For federal labor law guidance, including minimum wage and worker protections, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.